Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When exploring the world of mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly influence your typing experience. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro, a linear switch, is celebrated for its fully polycarbonate construction, which contributes to its unique bright and chirpy sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate audible feedback and a silky smooth typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar also offers a linear experience, promoting smooth and reliable performance while being budget-friendly, making it ideal for users seeking value without compromising on quality. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, yet they cater to different preferences: the Crystal Pro emphasizes a lively sound and polished touch, while the Everfree Cedar focuses on dependable performance at an affordable price. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18mm spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar, both switches feature polycarbonate for their top housing. This shared material contributes to a crisp and clear sound profile in both switches, as polycarbonate is known for its rigidity, which results in a sharper sound with higher frequencies. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows RGB lighting to shine through effectively, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. As they both utilize the same material for the top housing, users can expect a similar auditory experience when these switches are activated, particularly in terms of the sound produced upon releasing a key.
However, the differences emerge with the bottom housing materials. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro employs a polycarbonate bottom housing, continuing the trend of delivering a sharper sound profile. In contrast, the Everfree (EF) Cedar utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which is characteristically softer. This responsiveness to sound results in a fuller, deeper tone due to nylon's ability to absorb sound more effectively, yielding a duller yet rounder auditory experience. As a result, while both switches maintain a crisp sound thanks to their polycarbonate top, the bottom housing significantly influences how the sound and feel of the switch manifest during typing.
In terms of user experience, the distinct characteristics of the bottom housings produce noticeable contrasts between the two switches. The Akko V3 Crystal Pro offers a consistent sharp sound throughout its action due to uniform materials for both the top and bottom, contributing to a cohesive tactile feel. Conversely, the Gateron Everfree's nylon bottom introduces a warming effect to the sound profile and a softer feel that may appeal to users seeking a more muted typing experience. Therefore, while the similarities in top housing ensure a crisp auditory result, the choices made for the bottom housing ultimately determine the nuances in sound and tactile feedback unique to each switch.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch with the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch, there are notable differences in the actuation force and bottom out force. The V3 Crystal Pro has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a gentler touch, which can enhance comfort during prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Everfree (EF) Cedar features a heavier actuation force of 55 grams, catering to users who enjoy a more substantial feel with each keystroke. As for the bottom out forces, the V3 Crystal Pro registers a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the bottom out force for the Everfree (EF) Cedar is unavailable. Consequently, the V3 Crystal Pro is the overall lighter option in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, potentially offering a more effortless typing experience compared to the heavier actuation of the Everfree (EF) Cedar. Users seeking a heavier switch should consider the Cedar for that more tactile feedback, while those favoring ease of use would benefit from the V3 Crystal Pro's lighter forces.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch features a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the V3 Crystal Pro will provide a deeper press, which some users may prefer for a more substantial tactile feedback, ideal for those who appreciate a bit more depth in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Everfree Cedar, with its shorter travel distance, might be more appealing to gamers seeking quicker response times and a snappier feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference: if you favor a more traditional and hearty experience, the V3 Crystal Pro is the better option; however, if you lean towards a faster, more responsive touch, the Gateron Everfree Cedar would likely suit you better.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
The Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Everfree (EF) Cedar for $2.75.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When comparing the sound profiles of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switches, the V3 Crystal Pro is noted for its bright and chirpy character. This unique quality adds a slight squeak that can distinguish it from other switches, providing a lively auditory feedback during typing. In contrast, the sound profile of the Everfree (EF) Cedar has not been explicitly described in available documentation. However, it is noted for its poppy sound, which suggests a potentially punchy and engaging auditory feedback as well. Ultimately, while both switches bring their own sonic flavor, the V3 Crystal Pro's chirpy nature may offer a more pronounced sound experience.
In terms of feel, the V3 Crystal Pro is described as having a bouncy and polished quality. The bounciness lends a spring-like sensation during key presses, contributing to a lively and responsive typing experience. The polished nature enhances this by ensuring a smooth keystroke with minimal friction, ideal for extended typing sessions. The Everfree (EF) Cedar, however, lacks a specific description of its feel characteristics. Without further information, it’s difficult to draw a definitive comparison in terms of tactile feedback and smoothness, though it is marketed as reliable and smooth.
In conclusion, while the Akko V3 Crystal Pro offers a distinct chirpy sound and a bouncy, polished feel, the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar provides a poppy sound profile and is reputed for smooth performance without specific tactile descriptions. Those who prefer an engaging sound might gravitate towards the V3 Crystal Pro, while others looking for a cost-effective and smooth linear switch may find the Everfree Cedar appealing. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences, and personal experimentation will be key in determining which aligns best with an individual’s typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, the choice between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the Gateron Everfree (EF) Cedar linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences in typing feel and sound. If you prefer a switch that offers a medium bottom-out force of 60 grams, along with a unique, chirpy sound signature and a noticeably smooth and bouncy feel, the V3 Crystal Pro is likely the better fit for you. It's particularly ideal if you enjoy a lively typing experience that provides nice tactile feedback and a polished finish. On the other hand, if you're looking for a cost-effective switch that delivers reliable and smooth performance, the Gateron Everfree Cedar is a solid choice. While it lacks a specified bottom-out force, it thrives on Gateron's trusted design, offering a more subdued sound and feel profile. Therefore, if you're on a budget or prefer a more straightforward typing experience without the extra flair, the Everfree Cedar could suit your needs perfectly. Ultimately, your choice should reflect what you value most in your mechanical keyboard experience—be it a vibrant auditory landscape with a complex feel or a simple, dependable performance.
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